Sports Injuries
Whether you are on a field or court, in a rink, on the slopes—or even playing sports in your backyard—it is crucial to seek care if you sustain a foot or ankle injury. Prompt, proper care can accelerate your recovery and help get you back in the game as soon as possible.
When to See a Foot and Ankle Surgeon After Sports Injuries
Sports injuries happen to athletes of all ages and experience levels. You may get hurt during practice, in a game, or during training/practice. Your sports injury can occur suddenly or develop over time.
If you sustained an injury and require care, contact us today. After examination and assessment of any imaging ordered, Dr. Peter Harper and Dr. Kristin Harper will use their knowledge and expertise to support your recovery.
Different Types of Sports Injuries
There are many different types of sports injuries, including:
Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis occurs when your Achilles tendon (the tendon that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone) becomes irritated and inflamed, usually due to overuse.
Ankle Sprains
Another common sports-related injury is an ankle sprain, which can occur when you twist, turn, or roll your ankle in a way that damages the ligaments. Ankle sprains can come in different levels of severity, so it is useful to know the extent of your damage before attempting to return to sport.
Stress Fractures
A small crack in a bone is known as a stress fracture. Stress fractures are typically a result of repetitive stresses and strains on weight-bearing bones. These are very common in sports with a lot of high-impact movements such as continual running and jumping.
Turf Toe
A sprain within the big toe joint usually caused by the sudden and forceful bending of the toe is known as turf toe. It is common among athletes who play on artificial turf, hence the name.
Muscle Strains
A muscle strain is also known as a pulled muscle. Muscle strains can range from mild to severe. They occur due to overuse or overexertion.
Other Common Sports Injuries
Other common sports-related injuries include shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and blisters, just to name a few. Be sure to take note of any pain, swelling, instability, and weakness you experience in your feet and ankles so you can share your symptoms with our physicians.
Preventive Care Recommendations
There are many preventative care measures you can take to avoid sports injuries. Some of these measures include but are not limited to: wearing proper footwear, establishing a regular stretching and strengthening routine, gradually increasing your physical activity, knowing your limits and listening to your body, and using proper technique when participating in your sport.
Treatment Options
If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, swelling, or other concerning symptoms after exercising, practicing, or playing sports, these treatment options can help:
RICE
Rice stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. If you have been injured, stop moving and start resting.
You can apply ice throughout the day, as well as wear a compression bandage that applies pressure and reduces swelling. Elevating your leg above the heart level will also reduce swelling.
Pain Medication (Over the Counter or Prescription)
You can purchase over the counter pain medication or consult our doctors for a prescription to reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy involves working with a team of physical therapists who help you safely stretch and strengthen the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your lower legs. Stretching and performing exercises that carefully accommodate your injury can go a long way in terms of healing and preventing further sports injuries.
Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics are shoe inserts prescribed for you. These inserts are made specifically for you after capturing the precise contours and unique biomechanics of your feet. They give your feet the support they need and protect them against further injury.
Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections can relieve pain and reduce swelling.
Surgery
Some sports injuries require surgery. Surgery is typically only needed if there is a fractured bone or a tear in a tendon or ligament.
Contact Us for Expert Sport Injury Treatment
At the Foot & Ankle Associates of Greater Pittsburgh, Dr. Peter Harper and Dr. Kristin Harper can address your foot and ankle injury and provide the superior care you need. Our patient-centered approach allows us to offer you results-driven treatment methods so you can get back on the field, court, or wherever it is that you play and pursue your athletic ambitions.
For more information about our practice in Beaver, or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at (724) 774-1525 or fill out our contact online.
Contact Us
Office
336 College Avenue, Suite 106, Beaver,
PA , 15009
Monday: 8am – 12pm
Tuesday: 8am – 4:30pm
Wednesday: 8am – 4:30pm
Thursday: 8am – 4:30pm
Friday: 8am – 12pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed